From Staff Reports

AMERICUS — On Friday, May 3, Americus will hold its monthly “First Friday” downtown-wide open house. The theme for this month’s First Friday is “May’d in Sumter!” Jackson Street in downtown will be filled with business and industry that create products in Georgia’s Sumter County. Downtown merchants will highlight all that is made in Sumter by offering discounts, samples, giveaways, and more! Festivities begin at 5 p.m. with most shops and businesses staying open until 8 p.m. “First Friday After Dark” continues the festivities into the night after 8 p.m.
Everyone is invited to come experience the city’s art, music, food, wares, and crafts. The Americus Street Trolley will provide attendees transportation during the event. The trolley will make a loop of the event and is provided by Americus Main Street, free of charge. All activities, exhibits and performances are free of charge. Maps and playbills detailing the evening’s events will be available at participating locations. More information can be found on the Downtown Americus — Main Street Facebook page.
The Huss Foundation will host a “Homework” reception and Silent Charity Auction featuring unique furniture and household items made by Georgia Southwestern State University art students and faculty. The Americus Arts Gallery will have art activities such as creating paper derby hats, and will host Americus Snoball & Shaved Ice Co. Sumter Players Inc. will be located inside George’s Soda Fountain in the Rylander Theatre promoting their upcoming production, Southern Fried Funeral, featuring southern comfort foods shared during times of bereavement. Xpert Gaming & Computer Shop will host a video game developer demonstration and Q&A. Stop by Artfully Arranged Floral Shop & Gift Boutique to create your own corsage at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., or 7 p.m. — each class has limited seating and will only cost $10 to participate.
Attendees can enjoy shopping discounts, food samples, and specials at the following businesses: The Look Salon Studio, Three’s Company Too, Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio, Mane Street Salon, 2LC Bakery, The Maze, Kinnebrew Co., Café Campesino, and Allie’s Boutique & More.
Eat, drink, shop, and listen to live music Friday night in downtown Americus! Purchase an alcoholic beverage from any restaurant in downtown that serves and ask about the “Cocktail Caddy!” Americus Main Street will provide special cups to those restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages which will allow attendees the opportunity to walk around downtown during the event beginning at 5 p.m.
This event is organized by Americus Main Street and the City of Americus. One of the goals is to cultivate downtown Americus’ economic and cultural enrichment by providing a platform for entertainment and social engagement to the general public on a regular basis. Americus Main Street is thankful for the event sponsors, Georgia Power, and the Sumter County Development Authority.